Does Kim Kardashian Deserve a Vogue Cover?

When news broke Sunday evening on Jezebel—amid the Seahawks’ total annihilation of the Broncos—that Kim Kardashian was potentially shooting her first Vogue cover, some were appalled. Critics took to Twitter to express their horror, from @bookgirl86’s simple “Ugh. No” to @Smartladieslove's more elaborate “Oh please lord no. The end of fashun?”

Some of us, however, weren't so surprised. The truth is, Kim Kardashian matters to people, and not just the ones obsessed with US Weekly and reality TV. Kardashian matters, too, to people like Givenchy’s Riccardo Tisci, who dressed her for the 2013 Met Ball, and Celine’s Phoebe Philo, who sent Baby North (or “Buba”) custom baby outfits. Some ascribe her newfound style currency to the Kanye Effect, but whatever the cause, she has the industry's attention—and, increasingly, its respect.

Take for instance, her recent jaunt to Paris Haute Couture last month. In just a few short days, she managed to be seen in pieces from Azzedine Alaia, Givenchy, Celine, Tom Ford, Stephane Rolland, and Gianvito Rossi, proving that she was no longer the bandage-dress and leggings-clad starlet of yore. Yes, Kardashian has been trying her hand at high fashion for years, but it looks like, post-baby, she has finally gotten it right. Minimal and elegant, the future Mrs. West managed to nail the importance of neutrals (whites, blacks, and camels) and fit (tailored coats and pencil skirts are key).

So whether the Vogue rumors are true or not, we are withholding our fire. Now, if they can just get her to pose with Baby North.